Orthodontics and temporomandibular disorders.

The presumed relationship between occlusal disharmonies and temporomandibular disorders has been the cornerstone of traditional orthodontic thinking about these disorders. Current research, however, indicates that temporomandibular problems are actually medical orthopedic diseases or dysfunctions that have little to do with occlusal morphology or maxillomandibular relationships. Therefore, orthodontists must discard some of their traditional beliefs and practices, replacing them with modern concepts of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction, in order to provide appropriate care for patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders.